Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 29th, 2012 3:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.

jeremy.mackenzie, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

Hazard has increased slightly in the alpine due to wind slab development over the past 24hrs. Sheltered areas are still offering great skiing, but carefully evaluate your run if you are choosing to push out into new lines. Lots of tracks out there!

Summary

Confidence

Good

Weather Forecast

No precipitation is expected over the next few days. Winds will continue to be northerly and temperatures in the alpine will range from -8 to -14.

Avalanche Summary

Nothing new.

Snowpack Summary

Surface hoar is present below 2200m in sheltered areas. Surface faceting continues due to persistent cold temperatures. In the alpine significant wind slab development has occurred over the last 48 hours on N and W asp. These slabs also extend just below ridgecrest on E and S aspects. Previously formed buried wind slabs, now down 25 to 55cm are reactive in the moderate to hard range of compression tests. No cracking or whumpfing was observed today.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Persistent NW winds have developed thin wind slabs on windward aspects (N and W). These slabs also extend a short distance below ridge-crest on S and E aspects. Buried wind slabs are also present on N and E aspects down 25 to 55cm.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Deep Persistent Slabs

This layer is still a concern despite the lack of activity. In most areas at and above treeline we have a generally "deep" snowpack, however shallow areas will be found in the alpine. Treat these variable areas with caution.

Be aware of thin areas that may propagate to deeper instabilites.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

3 - 6

Valid until: Dec 30th, 2012 2:00PM